Liberal Democrat News 7 September 2012

The North East Region was invigorated by a full day's visit to Newcastle by the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg last week.

Following a visit to Soil Machine Dynamics Ltd, one of the world's leading manufacturers of remote intervention equipment, Nick spent the day at three regional events held in the Life Science Centre. The huge Centre holds exhibitions, events, theatre shows and contains the biggest planetarium in the North of England.

Nick is seen above with Life Centre Chief Executive Linda Conlon watching youngsters being inspired at the venue. As well as the stunning planetarium, the changing programme currently includes: the Curiosity Zone - a 100 per cent hands-on exhibition which encourages children to think creatively and act like a scientist; Science Explainers doing demonstrations in the Science Theatre; a 4D Motion Ride (minimum height requirement: 1.2m/4ft) and a Young Explorers' Zone for the smallest visitors.

In the evening Nick was warmly welcomed at an informal reception with party members (below left). They particularly appreciated that, in the tight schedule, he managed to have a few words with everyone before attending the Town Hall Q & A session organised with Metro Radio. Education, the economy and regional pay were some of the issues raised in a lively hour-long session.

Nick then joined 40 guests for a fund-raising business lunch and another Q & A session where a sense of growing confidence was expressed by a number of business leaders who welcomed Deputy Prime Minister's commitment to the region's future.

"It was a really excellent day for all of us; an all-round team effort," said Regional Chair, Ian Jones. "And I've had loads of texts for membership forms! Thank you Nick."